2008 BMW X3 vs. 2012 BMW X6
To start off, 2012 BMW X6 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW X3 would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW X6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X6 (480 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X6 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X6 weights approximately 1100 kg more than 2008 BMW X3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 BMW X6 (779 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 474 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3. 2012 BMW X6 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW X6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2012 BMW X6 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | X3 | X6 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 480 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 779 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 2615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4879 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1984 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1689 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2934 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 10.2 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 85 L |
